Several rookies are already making a major impact at the 2026 NBA Summer League. From top draft picks to unexpected second-round standouts, these five players have generated the most attention.
Meleek Thomas - Cleveland Cavaliers
Thomas has been one of the biggest surprises of Summer League. The second-round pick leads all players with 28.3 points per game through three contests while also averaging 4.3 assists, four rebounds and 2.3 steals.
He is shooting 50% from the field and 45.8% from three. Cleveland has a crowded backcourt, but Thomas has played well enough to force the Cavaliers to take notice.
Caleb Wilson - Chicago Bulls
The fourth overall pick has looked ready to contribute immediately.
Wilson is averaging 27 points, 6.5 rebounds, four blocks and two steals through two games while shooting 52.6% from both the field and three-point range.
Chicago is expected to give him a major role as a rookie, and his early performance has only increased the hype surrounding him.
AJ Dybantsa - Washington Wizards
Dybantsa is averaging 25 points, seven rebounds, 2.5 steals and 1.5 blocks through two games.
The No. 1 overall pick has struggled from three, but he has still found ways to score and impact the game. AJ's game is smooth but he can violently attack the rim as well. Many are saying he plays like a 6'9" SGA.
Darryn Peterson - Utah Jazz
Peterson has shown flashes of the scoring ability that made him the second overall pick.
He is averaging 23.5 points, four assists and 1.5 blocks through two games, although he is shooting just 33.3% from the field and has struggled with turnovers and fouls.
Utah will likely give Peterson a large role immediately, giving him plenty of opportunities to develop.
Tyler Nickel - New York Knicks
Nickel has quickly established himself as one of Summer League’s best outside shooters, drawing some Klay Thompson comparisons.
The 47th overall pick has made 10 of his first 21 three-point attempts, shooting 47.6% from deep through three games. His shooting could give him a chance to earn a role on a deep Knicks roster that just won a ring.
Summer League success does not always carry over to the regular season, but all five players have already given their teams something to be excited about.
